Harlequins and Red Roses full-back Ellie Kildunne has been awarded an MBE in the King’s New Year Honours List for 2026, capping off a remarkable year for the England star.
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Head coach John Mitchell, captain Zoe Stratford (née Aldcroft) and Marlie Packer were all recognised with OBEs, while Kildunne was joined by Meg Jones and Sadia Kabeya in receiving MBEs.
The honour rounds off a sensational 12 months for Kildunne, who finished runner-up at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards after playing a starring role in England’s Rugby World Cup triumph. The full-back crossed the whitewash in the final as the Red Roses lifted the trophy in front of a record-breaking home crowd.
RFU chief executive Bill Sweeney paid tribute to the group’s impact on the game.
“On behalf of everyone at the RFU, I would like to congratulate all those who have been honoured,” he said. “Each played an integral role during a defining year for women’s rugby in this country, and the recognition they have received is thoroughly deserved.
“These individual honours reflect the collective efforts of the entire squad and the wider support team. The Red Roses’ influence on societal change in the women’s game has been exponential, and their contribution is helping shape a thriving future for rugby at every level.”
Ellie Kildunne: 10 Things to Know About England’s star player
1. Early beginnings in Yorkshire
Ellie Kildunne was born on 8 September 1999 in Keighley, West Yorkshire, England. She began playing rugby at seven, initially in rugby league before switching to rugby union at nine. Her early dedication set the stage for her rapid rise in the sport.
2. Dual-code roots
Kildunne is a versatile player who has excelled in both rugby union and rugby sevens. She represented England in sevens between 2018 and 2020, and later played for Great Britain in 2024. This experience makes her adaptable across formats and tactical systems.
3. Club career trajectory
- Began with Gloucester-Hartpury in 2017–2018.
- Played for Wasps during the 2020–2021 season.
- Since 2021, she has been a star at Harlequins Women.
4. International debut and rise
Ellie Kildunne made her England debut in 2017, scoring a try in her very first match against Canada. Since then, she has grown into a cornerstone of the Red Roses’ backline.
5. Standout 2024 campaign
In 2024, Ellie Kildunne enjoyed a career-defining season:
- Top try scorer and top points scorer in the Women’s Six Nations.
- Named Player of the Tournament in the 2024 Six Nations.
- Awarded World Rugby Women’s 15s Player of the Year in November 2024.
6. Playing style & strengths
Kildunne primarily plays fullback but can excel at centre. Her electric pace, elusive running, and attacking creativity make her one of the most dangerous players on the pitch.
7. 50-cap milestone & try scoring record
By early 2025, Ellie Kildunne was set to earn her 50th cap for England. She has already scored dozens of tries for her country, quickly rising through England’s try-scoring ranks.
8. Recent World Cup impact
In the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, Kildunne has been crucial to England’s campaign. Her standout moment came in the semi-final against France, where she scored two solo tries to secure England’s 35–17 victory.
9. Off the field: media, brand & personality
Off the pitch, Ellie Kildunne is a media personality and influencer, with her own podcast and brand partnerships. Her outspoken nature and authentic style have made her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s rugby.
10. Relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey
Ellie Kildunne was in a long-term relationship with Cameron Sommerville-Bailey, a director at Complete Renovations until recently but is now believed to be single.
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